Shopian, October 03: Shopian Police have arrested a person in connection with a complaint regarding alleged cheating and impersonation involving a social media appeal seeking financial assistance for the treatment of a cancer patient.
The complaint was received on the CUG mobile of Police Station Shopian from Farooq Ahmad Sofi, resident of Manghama, who had published an appeal on social media seeking financial assistance for the treatment of his son, who is undergoing treatment for cancer.
Taking advantage of the appeal, the accused, identified as Umar Shameem Ganie, resident of Memander, Shopian, allegedly posed as an employee of the DC Office, Shopian, and assured the family that he would facilitate financial assistance from the Deputy Commissioner, Shopian, for the treatment of the patient. On this pretext, he allegedly obtained ₹9,999 from the complainant.
The accused was subsequently traced by the complainant in Shopian market, where he allegedly manhandled, intimidated and threatened him.
Accordingly, an e-FIR has been registered at Police Station Shopian and the accused has been arrested.
Preliminary investigation has also brought to light allegations of similar fraudulent activities by the accused against other persons, which are being verified as part of the investigation.
Investigation has been set into motion and further developments will be shared in due course.
Shopian Police urge the general public to remain vigilant against online fraudsters and impersonators, particularly those who misuse genuine requests for financial assistance. The public is advised to verify the identity and credentials of persons claiming to facilitate financial assistance on behalf of government offices or officials and to report any suspicious activity to the police immediately.
